Pigmentation
Skin pigmentation refers to the colouring of a person’s skin, which is mainly determined by the amount and type of pigment produced by specialised skin cells called melanocytes. The primary pigment responsible for skin colour is melanin.
​The amount, type, and distribution of melanin in the skin contribute to the wide variety of skin colours found in different populations.
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Causes of Pigmentation
Pigmentation is influenced by several factors:
Genetics: This is the primary factor that determines a person’s natural skin colour.
Sun exposure: UV radiation stimulates the production of melanin as a protective mechanism, leading to tanning.
Hormones: Hormonal changes, such as those during pregnancy or certain medical conditions, can alter pigmentation (e.g., melasma or the "mask of pregnancy").
Age: As people age, melanin production decreases, leading to lighter skin or age spots.
Disruptions in normal pigmentation can result in conditions like albinism, where melanin is absent or insufficient, or vitiligo, where patches of skin lose melanin.
When it comes to treating pigmentation concerns like sun spots, melasma, age spots, or general uneven skin tone, chemical peels and skin needling (microneedling) are both excellent options. Both methods can help improve the appearance of pigmentation by encouraging skin renewal, stimulating collagen, and breaking up excess melanin in the skin. Let’s dive into each treatment and how they can help with pigmentation.
Treatment Recommendations
Common treatments for pigmentation include
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Ultraceauticals skincare
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Chemical Peels
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​Microneedling (Skin Needling)
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​Light-Based Therapies (Laser/IPL/Resurfacing)
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​Combining Chemical Peels and Microneedling for Pigmentation
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Treatment Considerations (Non Negotiables)
Getting a skin cancer check before any pigment treatment is important because it helps identify any underlying skin conditions, like skin cancer, that may be present but not yet noticeable. Pigment treatments, like those for hyperpigmentation or tattoos, can sometimes mask or interfere with the ability to spot these early signs. A skin cancer check ensures that any potentially harmful moles or spots are assessed and addressed first, so you’re not putting your health at risk while focusing on cosmetic treatments.
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Skin Prep ( Non Negotiables)
Prepping your skin with tyrosinase inhibitors, retinol, and SPF is a smart approach before undergoing any pigment treatment. Here's why each one plays a role:
Tyrosinase inhibitors - These are substances that help to reduce the production of melanin, which is the pigment responsible for dark spots and uneven skin tone. Using them before pigment treatments can help prevent hyperpigmentation from getting worse and can make your skin more even.
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Retinol helps to accelerate skin cell turnover, which can fade dark spots and improve skin texture. Using retinol before pigment treatments can help to clear out dead skin cells and prep the skin to be more receptive to the treatment. Just be cautious with how you use it, as retinol can make the skin more sensitive, especially when combined with other active ingredients.
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Sun protection is essential when prepping for any pigment treatment because UV exposure can worsen pigmentation issues and even undo the effects of your treatment. Sunscreen with broad-spectrum protection helps prevent the formation of new dark spots and protects the skin from further damage.
Using these in combination ensures your skin is in the best possible condition for any pigment treatments while also safeguarding your skin’s long-term health!
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Recommendations
UltraMD & Ultraceauticals Skincare
(Professional Chemical Peels)
​Discover The Best In Skincare With Ultraceuticals' Skincare prep ideas. MD Brightening Cleanser, MD Brightening Serum, Ultra A Perfecting Serum, UV Daily Moisturiser 50.
Chemical peels remove the outer layers of skin, which can help fade hyperpigmentation over time. This process encourages new, healthier skin cells to emerge, improving the overall tone and texture.
Targeting Pigmentation
Peels specifically formulated for pigmentation (like glycolic acid, lactic acid, or salicylic acid) help break up melanin and reduce the appearance of dark spots, age spots, or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Collagen Stimulation
Deeper peels can stimulate collagen production, which may help improve the overall quality of the skin, smoothing out texture issues caused by pigmentation.
IPL for Pigmentation
The targeted pigmentation absorbs the light energy emitted by the IPL device. The pigment in the skin absorbs specific wavelengths of light, which then converts to heat and breaks down the pigment particles. Over time, the broken-down pigment is naturally processed and removed by the body, resulting in a more even skin tone.
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IPL can be effective in treating
Sunspots (sun damage)
Age spots
Freckles
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​​Interesting Fact! Using Nicimamide and Retinol can aid in reducing the pigment cells from transferring the melanin to the surrounding skin.
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Microneedling for Pigmentation
Microneedling, also known as skin needling or collagen induction therapy, involves using a device with tiny needles to create micro-injuries in the skin. This triggers the body’s natural healing process, which can help address pigmentation and improve skin texture.
How Microneedling Works for Pigmentation:
Collagen Stimulation
The tiny punctures made by the microneedles stimulate the production of collagen and elastin, which can improve the texture of the skin, make it firmer, and help fade pigmentation over time.
Pigmentation Breakdown
Microneedling can also help break up melanin in the skin, which may reduce the appearance of sun spots, age spots, and other forms of hyperpigmentation.
Improved Absorption of Topical Treatments Microneedling creates channels in the skin, allowing for better absorption of serums or creams that target pigmentation, like vitamin C, retinol, or brightening agents.
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How To Contact Us
Address
6a, 335 Honour Ave,
Graceville QLD 4075
Contact
07 3 137 1643
Opening Hours
Mon - Tue, Fri
9.00 am - 2.00 pm
Wed - Thur
9.00 am - Late
Saturday
By Appointment Only
​Sunday
Closed